Actionable Steps

Working Together for Safe and Secure Libraries: Actionable Steps

Familiarize yourself with your institution's safety and communications plans.
Ensure that your personal social media accounts are secure and in compliance with your institution's policies.
Work with your supervisor to identify and schedule relevant professional learning opportunities.
Designate breaks during your work day to check-in with and care for yourself and your colleagues.
Spend time with your personal and professional networks, and use your employee assistance program for additional support.

Work with library board and local law enforcement to clarify how decisions will be made and communicated in an emergency.
Review safety plan with all staff and volunteers.
Ensure that staff know the communications protocols and where/how to expect information, in case of emergency.
Attend law enforcement preparedness training.
Review your institution's employee assistance program and ensure that everyone has opportunities to access assistance programs.
Assess the workplace to ensure that you are fostering a community of care.

Work with library administration and local law enforcement to clarify how decisions will be made and communicated in an emergency.
Ensure that the library's safety policies and plan are reviewed, updated, and shared with staff and volunteers.
Familiarize yourself with the library's crisis communications plan, including both public-facing and internal communications systems and protocols.
Allocate resources for training and wellbeing services related to safety.
Ensure that the board follows clear and consistent processes that prioritize collaboration and inclusion, uplift diverse experiences, and are mission-focused.